Coconut rhinoceros beetle, <i>Oryctes rhinoceros</i> (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae), continues to devastate coconut palms around Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea

Abstract The coconut rhinoceros beetle ( Oryctes rhinoceros ) is an invasive pest from South‐East Asia that poses a significant threat to coconut palms in tropical regions. First detected on the mainland of Papua New Guinea in 2009 near Jacksons International Airport, located on the southern coast of the mainland near the city of Port Moresby, coconut rhinoceros beetle spread rapidly throughout Port Moresby and along the coast. This study utilized historical records, satellite imagery, on‐site surveys and stakeholder interviews to assess the impact of coconut rhinoceros beetle in three Port Moresby locations: the Gateway Hotel gardens, the Kilakila settlement and the Pacific Adventist University plantation. Results indicated severe coconut palm losses, over 90%, 80% and 40% at the three sites, respectively, with significant economic repercussions, including a sharp rise in local coconut prices. These findings highlight the urgent need for comprehensive management and mitigation strategies to protect Papua New Guinea's coconut palm ecosystems and dependent livelihoods.